| This thesis explores diffusion of innovation in the residential construction industry using Kingston builders as typical of the industry in general,;Diffusion theory describes the ways in which innovation is spread through society. The sociological perspective is concerned with individuals and the characteristics that make them more or less prone to adopt innovation. Positive variables include high education levels and other socio-economic indicators, a central position in the communication network, as well as strong linkages to the resource system. This perspective categorizes adopters as early to late, and the distribution is described by a 'normal' curve.;The economic perspective of diffusion includes attributes of the firm, the industry, the market and the socio-political context, as variables which influence the adoption and diffusion of innovation. Since most firms are profit-oriented, the main accelerator for adoption of an innovation is low cost with high return (relative advantage). Market variables include customer demand, competition, market niche, and support from suppliers. Regulatory forces may enhance or inhibit adoption of innovation. The attributes of the innovations are also variables in their rate of diffusion. (Abstract shortened by UMI.). |
